Steve Wright

What was your first job in retailing?

In my local newsagent’s while I was at school. 

Which retail company do you admire most and why?

Marks & Spencer, because it has done a wonderful job in remaining true to the values on which it was founded. This has allowed it to develop a brand that is wholly trusted.

What is the trait you least like in yourself and why?

I have a habit of trying to squeeze too much into the day.

Who have you learnt most from in your retail career?

I don’t think you ever stop learning, so much changes so quickly that you are constantly learning something new. It’s one of the things I love about retail.

What advice would you give someone starting out in retail?

Be determined, know your target market and understand these consumers. By keeping the customer at the heart of everything you do you are on the best track you can be.

What’s the most satisfying part of your job?

What we hear time and time again from customers is how they keep boxes of meaningful cards to look back at. Knowing that we have such a meaningful part to play in someone’s life is a privilege.

What’s your proudest achievement?

Seeing your kids growing up is a kind of pride that can’t be matched.

What keeps you awake at night?

Thankfully I fall asleep pretty much instantly.

What job would you have done if you hadn’t become a retailer?

I did want to be a astronaut when I was at school.

What’s your favourite shop and why?

Cabela’s in the US. It is a large outdoor activity store chain where you can buy virtually anything relating to outdoor activities. They have a store near Kansas City where they have created amazing theatre.

What was your last purchase?

A new digital camera, which I purchased online.